On Sunday November 27, Flowstars Bianca Bothma, Colin Ford and George Xafis gave 67 minutes of their time when they accompanied orphaned and vulnerable children from crèches in Lenasia and Soweto on an outing to the Johannesburg Zoo.
The transport for the day. Image courtesy of George Xafis
Lara Hirschmann, founder and trustee of the Thusanani Children’s Foundation, has been organising outings for these children, between the ages of two and six, for nine years now.
Thusanani is affiliated with several children’s homes, where it provides those in need with therapy and advice. It also facilitates training for care workers at its premises in Braamfontein.
“I take the kids to the zoo because it is an educational outing, and a real treat and novelty compared to their usual surroundings. They also get to learn that animals are real and three-dimensional,” explains Lara.
Flow’s writing studio manager, Colin Ford, has been joining Lara and her team on their outings for years. When Flowstars Bianca and George heard about the project, they were quick to volunteer.
Says Colin: “Seeing the kids’ reactions to the animals is just amazing. It’s a good feeling, knowing that you’re part of such an exciting experience for the children.”
After visiting the animals, the children were treated to a special Christmas party. They enjoyed a lunch of hot dogs, and unwrapped presents given by Riviera Nursery School. Lara and her friends also put together Christmas packages for the care workers from each crèche.
“We have literally watched the kids mature, grow and learn over the years, and the party nowadays is completely different,” says Lara. “We are dealing with more educated and interested children, as well as more educated teachers who have completed their college training.”
“Thank you so much to Flow for all the help! I really needed the help this year and you guys were amazing.”
The children gather around to learn more about animals wild and strange … Says George, “It's encouraging to know these kids are not alone, and that there are people who care and are willing to help in whichever way possible. It was a humbling experience.” Image courtesy of Bianca Bothma
A pair of lazy wild dogs relax in the shade. Says Bianca, “It was awesome to witness the kids’ reactions to seeing the wild animals in real life.” Image courtesy of George Xafis
George helps one of the children get a better look at one of the enclosures. Image courtesy of Bianca Bothma
The children gather on the zoo lawns to enjoy lunch and open presents. Image courtesy ofGeorge Xafis